Thousands attend 28th Annual Chuy's Children Giving to Children Parade

Thousands of people flooded Downtown Austin Saturday morning to be part of the 28th Annual Chuy's Children Giving to Children Parade.

"As big as Austin gets, people coming and going, it seems like the Chuy's parade still gathers the amount of people to make a difference," Roy Rangel, who attended the parade with his family, said.

Katie Roper has been volunteering at the parade for over 10 years. She said the gifts collected will impact thousands of Texas families.

"It's responsible for over some 30,000 toys. Generating this toy drive for children and underprivileged families in the Central Texas area," she said.

The parade benefits Operation Blue Santa, which provides families gifts and food for the holidays. But the parade also makes an impact on the families who are donating.

"I wanted to bring my son and let him see all the cool cars and have all the fun. Also understand that it's about giving back. I want to start getting him on that journey and understanding what that's all about," Laird Oliver said.

"I think it means everything to everyone because it is about family and community and that's something we all need right about now," Melissa Dix, Laird's wife, said.

And that spirit is just another reason why the parade has and will continue to grow.

"It's unbelievably touching and the moment you see those kids put the toys on the truck, you'll be involved each and every year," Roper said.